The late David Bowie's triumph at the BRIT Awards turned into a moving tribute to his life and legacy.

Bowie – who passed away in January 2016 after privately battling cancer – was named Best British Male Solo Artist by Zane Lowe during tonight's (Wednesday 22) show in a true testament to his enduring influence.

The award was accepted on behalf of his family by Michael C. Hall, the star of Bowie's critically-acclaimed Broadway and West End musical Lazarus.

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"If David Bowie could be here tonight, he wouldn't be here tonight," Michael joked.

"Since he can't be here tonight, I'm here tonight on his behalf and on behalf of his family to accept this testament to a man beholden to nothing but his own boundless imagination and daring – whose ever-expanding artistic vitality simultaneously soothes us and seers us and astonishes us.

"Maybe he is here tonight – I don't know. I'm honoured to stand before you and acknowledge the potency of his work – and if I may to also acknowledge [that] David's kindness and generosity and enthusiasm will forever inspire me to be a better man. On his behalf, thank you!"